Things to Do in Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a group of islands off the coast of Tanzania. It also mixes old history, Swahili culture and white-sand beaches. For example, you can explore a historic town in the morning and then swim in turquoise water in the afternoon.

Overall, this guide covers the best things to do in Zanzibar, plus tips to help you plan your trip.

Top Things to Do in Zanzibar at a Glance

• Walk the old streets of Stone Town
• Relax on the beaches of Nungwi, Kendwa and Paje
• Take a spice farm tour
• See red colobus monkeys in Jozani Forest
• Snorkel or dive on coral reefs
• Sail on a traditional dhow at sunset
• Visit the giant tortoises on Prison Island
• Eat street food at Forodhani Gardens

History and Culture

Explore Stone Town

Stone Town is the old heart of Zanzibar City. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Moreover, its narrow streets are full of carved wooden doors, busy markets and old buildings.

Key sights include:

• The Old Fort, built by the Omanis in the 1600s
• The House of Wonders, the former sultan’s palace
• The old slave market, now a memorial and museum
• Darajani Market, the town’s main local market

Above all, a local guide makes the visit much richer. See our historic walk through Stone Town.

Visit Historic Sites Outside Stone Town

However, Zanzibar’s history goes beyond the old town. Good stops include:

• The Persian Baths at Kidichi, built by a sultan for his Persian wife
• Maruhubi Palace ruins, a former sultan’s palace by the sea
• Mangapwani Slave Chambers, a cave and chamber used during the slave trade

Take a Spice Tour

Zanzibar is known as the “Spice Island.” On a spice tour, you walk through a farm with a local guide. Then you see, smell and taste cloves, cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg and fresh tropical fruit.

Book a Zanzibar spice tour as a half-day trip.

Meet Local Communities

Many villages run community tourism projects. For instance, you can join a cooking class, watch a traditional dance or visit a local school. This gives you a real feel for Swahili life. In addition, your money supports local families.

Beaches and the Sea

Relax on Zanzibar’s Beaches

However, each coast has a different feel:

• Nungwi and Kendwa (north): calm water, lively bars and great sunsets. The tide changes little here, so swimming is easy all day.
• Paje and Jambiani (east): wide white beaches and big tides. Paje is also a top spot for kitesurfing.
• Matemwe (northeast): quiet and close to Mnemba Atoll.

Go Snorkeling and Diving

Zanzibar’s reefs are home to tropical fish, turtles and dolphins. In particular, Mnemba Atoll is the best-known spot. Beginners can snorkel from a boat, while certified divers can explore deeper walls.

Join a Safari Blue Day Trip

Safari Blue is a full-day boat trip in Menai Bay. Besides sailing, it includes snorkeling, a sandbank stop and a seafood lunch. Add a day at sea with our 6-day Zanzibar escape with Safari Blue.

Take a Sunset Dhow Cruise

A dhow is a traditional wooden sailing boat. A sunset cruise is a calm, romantic way to end the day, and it’s a favorite for couples. Read more about our Zanzibar dhow trip.

Nature and Wildlife

Visit Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park

Jozani is Zanzibar’s only national park. Most importantly, it is home to the rare Zanzibar red colobus monkey, which lives nowhere else on Earth. A guided walk also takes you along a boardwalk through the mangroves.

Meet the Giant Tortoises on Prison Island

Prison Island is a short boat ride from Stone Town. Today, it is especially known for giant Aldabra tortoises, some over 100 years old. You can also swim and snorkel near the island.

Food, Shopping and Nightlife

Try Swahili Food

As a result of its history, Zanzibar food mixes African, Arab and Indian flavors. Try:

• Seafood curry with coconut and spices
• Zanzibar pizza, a stuffed and fried street snack
• Urojo, a tangy local soup
• Fresh grilled seafood at Forodhani Gardens night market

Shop at Local Markets

Stone Town’s markets and shops sell spices, wood carvings, kanga cloth and handmade jewelry. Prices are often open to bargaining, so be friendly and agree on the price first.

Enjoy Music and Nightlife

Above all, Taarab is Zanzibar’s traditional music, with Arab and Swahili roots. In the evening, you can hear live music in Stone Town or enjoy beach bars in Nungwi and Kendwa. In addition, every February Stone Town hosts the Sauti za Busara music festival.

Responsible Travel in Zanzibar

Zanzibar protects its reefs and forests through marine parks and community projects. You can help:

• Choose tour operators who respect wildlife
• Never touch or stand on coral
• Use reef-safe sunscreen
• Buy crafts directly from local makers

Travel Tips for Zanzibar

• Insurance: all foreign visitors must buy the official inbound travel insurance before arrival. Buy it in the country where you first land: Zanzibar (ZIC) or mainland Tanzania (NIC).
• Visa: most visitors need a Tanzania visa. Then apply online for an e-visa before you travel.
• Health: take malaria tablets and use insect repellent. Also, bring a yellow fever certificate if you arrive from a country where yellow fever is present.
• Dress: Zanzibar is mostly Muslim. Therefore, cover your shoulders and knees in towns and villages. However, swimwear is fine on the beach.
• Money: the local currency is the Tanzanian shilling (TZS). Still, US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas.

Plan Your Zanzibar Trip

Zanzibar has something for every traveler: history in Stone Town, spices in the countryside, monkeys in Jozani and some of Africa’s best beaches. That is why many guests add it after a Tanzania safari for the perfect bush-and-beach holiday.

Ready to go? See our 10-day Zanzibar itinerary or contact our team to plan your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Zanzibar safe for tourists?

Yes, Zanzibar is generally safe for tourists. Still, use common sense: avoid empty areas at night and keep your valuables secure.

What is the best time to visit Zanzibar?

The best time is the dry season from June to October. December to February is also hot and dry. However, avoid the long rains from March to May.

Do I need a visa to visit Zanzibar?

Most visitors need a Tanzania visa. However, you can apply online for an e-visa before you travel. Rules depend on your nationality, so check before booking.

What currency is used in Zanzibar?

The official currency is the Tanzanian shilling (TZS). Also, US dollars are widely accepted in hotels and tourist areas. Nevertheless, carry some shillings for markets and small shops.

What customs should I know about in Zanzibar?

Dress modestly in towns and villages, and avoid public displays of affection. Greet people with “Jambo” or “As-salaam alaikum.” During Ramadan, avoid eating or drinking in public during the day.